The Genius Grandson Of The Cash King Becomes A Tycoon [EN]: Chapter 35

#035

Jo Young-jin’s face, which had been turning red and blue, regained its composure.

His expression shifted instantly from one of near anger to serene calm.

A seasoned politician indeed, adept at concealing his true feelings.

“Impressive, just as I’ve heard.”

It was an unexpected reaction.

“Pardon?”

He was taken aback by Jo Young-jin’s subtle smile but didn’t betray his surprise.

Inwardly, he had even been prepared for the meeting to end abruptly.

“Councilman Kwon Yul mentioned it, and after hearing about your reputation, I sensed the aura of a tiger.”

‘Was this a deliberate provocation?’

He considered himself fortunate.

If he had been intimidated by the provocation and backed down, he would have been dismissed as insignificant.

“You flatter me.”

“No, you are the first person to use such blunt language with me, Jo Young-jin, upon our first meeting. Hahaha.”

“I apologize. I was too… forward.”

“I baited you, so I should apologize. *쩝쩝 (jeop-jeop, a slurping sound)*, but ‘smelly’ is a bit harsh, *크흠 (keu-heum, ahem)*.”

“I am truly sorry about that, Elder.”

Even he felt a pang of regret, and Jung-hoon looked genuinely embarrassed.

“So, you’re aiming for the reconstruction project, I hear?”

“No, we are not.”

“Then what is your objective?”

“We would simply appreciate a fair and impartial review process.”

“Just a proper review… meaning you’re confident if the evaluation is unbiased.”

Jung-hoon remained silent.

A long silence settled over the table.

“Look at me, wasting such fresh food! Come on, let’s eat.”

“I will begin after you, sir.”

“Hahaha, you’re a courteous fellow.”

Jo Young-jin picked up a piece of cold raw fish.

“The first piece should be eaten without any seasoning to truly appreciate its quality. That way, you can immediately discern if the fish is fresh and authentic.”

“Yes, Elder.”

“It’s the same with you. Had you arrived with Madam Hyun Jung-ok, it would have been difficult to properly gauge you. But seeing you here, independent of Madam Hyun’s influence, I can perceive your true character.”

“I will take that as a compliment.”

“Hahaha, I’m glad I met you, truly. Actually, Councilman Kwon Yul insisted that I meet you, so I was a bit apprehensive. You likely understand the reason.”

“Yes, Elder.”

“Indeed, as one ages, one must listen to others. If I had remained trapped by my prejudices and hadn’t met you, I would have deeply regretted it.”

“Thank you for your kind words.”

He bowed his head in gratitude. Then, Jung-hoon spoke again.

“Elder, will you ensure the selection of the construction company is conducted fairly, without any personal interests influencing the decision?”

“Without personal interests… hmm.”

“Yes.”

Jo Young-jin’s eyes changed.

The facade of a common neighborhood elder finally gave way to the presence of an influential member of the National Assembly.

The moment to reveal his true intentions was approaching.

“I have no personal interests, but I do have ambitions.”

“Ambitions…?”

“I have a desire to support people. I enjoy seeing my people rise. So, I’m considering mentoring someone.”

A politician mentoring someone. Ultimately, it means grooming them for a political career.

It is the most effective way to consolidate power and expand influence.

Jung-hoon’s mind raced.

Who?

Councilman Kwon Yul.

The answer came more readily than he anticipated.

The council, which will have limited responsibilities after the construction company is chosen.

He intends to propel the capable and upright Kwon Yul into politics.

The upcoming by-election this year.

Especially with the former mayor arrested for corruption involving billions.

He considered it a strategic move.

“Everyone desires to support others. If they are deserving individuals, I would also like to offer my assistance.”

“Haha, surely you know who I’m referring to?”

As expected of a seasoned politician, he immediately understood Jung-hoon’s implication.

“Yes, I also believe he is a good person.”

“Then, build a large central library for the underdeveloped Jungbu City.”

It would cost at least 20 billion won.

It was an investment that would not generate direct financial returns.

Jung-hoon had to reassess his position.

“Since you have a desire for people, Elder, I will express my desire for financial gain.”

“I advised you to curb your desires and contribute, yet you speak of desires… tell me, what are your desires?”

“This was originally a project I intended to undertake without any profit margin. I planned to utilize the estimated construction cost of 700 billion won as is. I was attempting to compensate for the lack of brand recognition with competitive pricing.”

“Still, you need to retain some profit to sustain your business.”

His eyes reflected suspicion at Jung-hoon’s words.

“If selected, Jungbu Construction’s name will be established. Numerous reconstruction and redevelopment projects will emerge across the country in the future. A company that has successfully completed 5,000 units. I believed it would enhance our reputation.”

“Hahaha, are you forgoing over a hundred billion won for mere recognition? You possess remarkable audacity.”

“Aren’t you also investing 20 billion won in reputation, Elder?”

A project to position Kwon Yul as the mayor.

“So, I will also pursue financial gain. And a slight desire to support people.”

Jo Young-jin observed Jung-hoon with keen interest.

“Elder, there’s an old saying that gifts and revenge should exceed expectations.

I understand that the library is not for your personal enrichment. Therefore, instead of a library, I propose building a state-of-the-art knowledge startup center.”

“What? A state-of-the-art knowledge startup center?”

Jo Young-jin’s throat felt parched at Jung-hoon’s words.

The phrase ‘state-of-the-art knowledge startup center’ ignited his enthusiasm.

For the first time in a long while, Jo Young-jin, feeling a surge of excitement, opted for a glass of water instead of alcohol.

“Haha, continue. I haven’t felt this invigorated in a while. I didn’t realize listening to people’s ideas could be so stimulating.”

“How about integrating the knowledge startup center with Jungbu University to transform it into a hub for high-tech industry startups?”

Jo Young-jin raised his head and fixed his gaze on Yoon Jung-hoon.

Then, without uttering a word, he poured alcohol into his glass.

He seemed dissatisfied with the small soju glass.

“Yul, bring me a larger glass.”

He filled a beer glass to the brim and emptied it in one gulp.

“Hoo, today soju is more refreshing than ice water. It feels like it’s clearing my congested chest.”

“Thank you.”

“Graduate quickly. I want to share a drink with you… it’s a pity. I’ll take my leave first. Yul, I’m leaving.”

Jung-hoon and Kwon Yul were surprised by Jo Young-jin’s abrupt departure.

“Are you leaving already? Aren’t you going to eat this? It’s your favorite, Elder.”

“I’m too full to eat right now… use your eyes.”

Jo Young-jin, about to exit, paused.

“If you maintain moderate desires, everyone will benefit. Even the citizens of our Jungbu City… State-of-the-art knowledge startup center, the most inspiring words I’ve heard recently. I enjoyed today. Let’s meet again.”

Assemblyman Jo Young-jin had no choice but to rush out.

He couldn’t risk revealing his true emotions.

He needed a cool breeze to alleviate the heat.

He strolled slowly along the beach.

Yet, he couldn’t quell his racing heart.

He never imagined that a 19-year-old boy could excite him so profoundly.

The ambition that had long faded was now rekindled on his face.

***

Chairman Chun Sang-soo saw his son in the Heaven Group chairman’s office for the first time in a while.

He was all smiles, recalling the compliments from the elder of Ilsong Group.

“Jin-hyuk, you handled the securities company matter well.”

“Thank you.”

“The elder has high expectations for you because of that.”

“I was fortunate last time. That company’s security was too lax.”

“You’re being modest. The elder suggested inviting you for a meal next time.”

“Pardon?”

He was both thrilled and anxious about the elder’s recognition and the dinner invitation.

“Don’t be so nervous. He’s a reasonable person. If you avoid foolish actions, don’t be greedy, and follow his guidance, everything will be fine. People need to listen. Observe what happens when they stubbornly insist on their own way; they vanish in an instant.”

“Yes, Father, I will heed your advice.”

“By the way, was the loss 50 billion or 100 billion won in 10 minutes back then?”

“Yes. It was 100 billion won in 8 minutes. But I believe there were skilled individuals in that company. I anticipated it would take at least an hour to contain it, but they managed it in 10 minutes.”

“If it had taken an hour, what would the total loss have been?”

“Probably hundreds of billions of won would have been lost.”

“Should I commend that company’s security team? Or you for stopping them in 10 minutes?”

“Yes. Their security program may have vulnerabilities, but they seem to have a number of competent security personnel. I’m personally curious about who they are.”

“Really? Haha, it’s difficult for me to assess without knowing the specifics.”

“No, I simply manipulated the price slightly using a hacking program.”

“Anyway, he expressed relief that you dealt with those nuisances. And you’re managing the Jungbu City reconstruction effectively, correct?”

“Yes. I’m focused on persuading the delegates. And the delegates are individually vetting the members. Everyone is receptive to Heaven Construction. Considering our construction capabilities and brand reputation, Jungbu Construction is no match for us.”

“Yes, that’s true… but Yoon Jung-hoon is involved. So, remain vigilant until the end.”

His expression subtly darkened when his name was mentioned.

But he quickly regained his composure and adopted the demeanor of a dutiful son.

“Yes, Father.”

“What is that guy doing?”

“I heard he’s been spending his time at the library.”

“Then you’re monitoring the people around him closely, right?”

“……Yes, I’m monitoring them closely.”

He told a small lie to avoid disrupting the positive atmosphere.

“Don’t be complacent. If we fail this time, the repercussions will be significant. It’s tied to the Jungbu City election.”

“Yes, Father. I won’t disappoint you.”

“You may leave now.”

Chairman Chun, watching his son Jin-hyuk depart, felt a sense of satisfaction.

However, the lingering unease persisted.

Returning to his office, Chun Jin-hyuk felt strangely unsettled.

He should have been pleased with the compliments from the elder and his father.

After careful consideration, he identified the source of his discomfort.

Yoon Jung-hoon.

Specifically, he recalled his father’s subtly distrustful expression.

His concern that Yoon Jung-hoon might jeopardize the project,

His apprehension that he might be unable to subdue him, was a clear slight.

He felt frustrated.

He vowed to crush him decisively this time.

Seeking to alleviate his foul mood, he pressed the intercom.

“Prepare and come in.”

***

“Grandmother, may I come in?”

“Yes, come in.”

“Why is it so difficult to see you these days?”

“The reconstruction construction company selection day is tomorrow, so I’ve been very busy. Now, all that’s left is to wait.”

“This must be the most stressful period.”

“Yes, now that there’s nothing more to do, I have many thoughts.”

“Why did you go to the beach? You wouldn’t have gone to admire the winter sea.”

Did he reveal the destination but not the person he met?

He realized Mr. Hyun-soo was more discreet than he had assumed.

“I met Assemblyman Jo Young-jin.”

Grandmother’s eyes widened.

“He wouldn’t be swayed by money.”

“They requested the meeting. And they asked me to build a library in exchange for selecting the construction company.”

“Really? Did you agree to that?”

“No. I decided to build a knowledge startup center for young people.”

“Hmm, very well done. Gifts should exceed expectations. There must have been a reason why Jo Young-jin wanted that.”

“They are planning to support Councilman Kwon Yul’s candidacy in the mayoral election at the end of this year.”

“For that…….”

Hyun Jung-ok was lost in thought.

“It seems like a favorable arrangement. We secure the construction company selection, and they gain Mayor Kwon Yul.”

“That’s true, but I’m concerned because politicians are prone to changing their allegiances.”

“Yes, Grandmother, I will remain vigilant.”

“Jung-hoon, don’t trust people. Especially politicians. You must only trust the situation. It is the situation that betrays you. So, you must always manipulate the situation to your advantage.”

“Yes, I will keep that in mind.”

“I’m glad you can anticipate future developments.”

“No, just…….”

“Don’t be modest, even with your grandmother…….”

Hyun Jung-ok smiled kindly.

“Grandmother, I’m planning to study diligently when I enter the 3rd grade, so could you buy me a gift?”

“What kind of gift, out of the blue?”

“I saw a promising company featured in the newspaper.”

Hyun Jung-ok’s eyes widened.

“Are you reading my mind?”

“Pardon?”

“No. Did Man-ho inform you?”

Jung-hoon looked puzzled.

“Hahaha, Hyun-soo was right. You can see several steps ahead. Yes, it’s almost time for that.”

She glanced at her watch.

It was 4:50 PM.

“I suppose they’ve submitted it by now.”

“Pardon?”

“Your gift; I prepared your gift. But I didn’t expect you to be thinking about it too…… Haha.”

“Grandmother, could that gift be?”

He felt a surge of excitement throughout his body.

Jung-hoon felt like he had truly understood Madam Hyun Jung-ok for the first time today.

Until now, he had only perceived her as a kind grandmother.

Occasionally grumpy and fond of dramas.

But she was also secretly preparing for war.

A company that would serve as the foundation for future battles.

“You’re more impressive than I realized. Why did you request that as a gift?”

“That’s…… the same reason as Grandmother.”

Jung-hoon intuitively knew that their motivations were aligned, even without explicit explanation.

Grandmother also looked at Jung-hoon.

And nodded slowly.

At that moment, a middle-aged man entered LCL Securities, the sales manager of BHC Securities.

He carried a thick document in his hand.

When he approached the window and spoke, the employee looked at him and responded professionally.

“Please take a number.”

“Hmm, that’s not necessary; I’m here to submit a bid proposal for BHC Securities.”

The employee’s pupils dilated momentarily upon hearing those words.

She quickly turned her head back.

The manager behind her jumped up and frantically began making a phone call.

She initiated the acquisition of BHC Securities, which had been unexpectedly put up for sale for undisclosed reasons.

***

On January 20, 2001, George W. Bush was inaugurated as the 43rd President of the United States, marking the end of the 8-year Bill Clinton administration. Clinton, who had successfully secured re-election despite a sex scandal, had led the country with relative stability. However, the Democratic Party, unable to overcome the 8-year jinx, had to cede power to Bush of the Republican Party.

On that day, people were constantly coming and going to the reconstruction office on the 2nd floor of Jugong Apartment in Jungbu City, South Korea.

Despite the cold weather, people were determined to exercise their rights.

Their total assets would be affected depending on which company’s apartment they chose.

It was a direct right that no one could relinquish.

Jung-hoon met Councilman Kwon Yul at a cafe in front of the shopping district.

“How have you been? Young master.”

“Yes, Councilman.”

“The atmosphere is promising. After all, Assemblyman Jo Young-jin wields considerable influence in this area. He personally contacted the delegates the day before yesterday and reconfirmed their positions yesterday.”

“Thank you.”

“I should be thanking you. You saved me from a potentially fatal situation that day when you don’t know what will happen to people…… and, cough, it’s too early to say, but even a mayoral candidate…….”

His face beamed.

He had been dishonorably discharged from the construction company, but now he was a trusted councilman,

And soon, a prospective mayoral candidate.

It was a dramatic turn of events.

Jung-hoon realized that Kwon Yul’s stature had grown significantly in just a few months.

“Thank you. It’s all thanks to the councilman that I’ve come this far.”

“Oh my, why are you being so formal all of a sudden? It’s a bit awkward…….”

“No. I have other commitments today, so I’ll take my leave first.”

“Oh right, you will be attending the dinner tonight, correct? How about introducing yourself to the attendees?”

“Well. I’ll have to consider that.”

“Many people are curious about you.”

“I understand.”

“It’s practically a guaranteed election. Don’t worry and go home and rest. Voting is merely a formality.”

Jung-hoon doubted that was the case, but he felt a twinge of anxiety.

Nothing else should go wrong.

Everything will be perfect once the voting is completed and the results are tallied.

‘Reconstruction construction company: Jungbu Construction confirmed.’

“Then I’ll be going.”

It was as he turned to leave.

Jung-hoon identified the source of the anxiety that had been nagging at him.

In the alley in front of the reconstruction complex shopping district, about ten vans screeched to a halt.

The Genius Grandson of the Cash King Becomes a Tycoon.